The U.S. Department of State announced sanctions against 50 individuals, entities, and vessels linked to Iran’s maritime transportation sector.
According to the announcement, the measures were imposed over allegations that the targeted network supported illicit shipping operations and sanctions evasion schemes connected to Iranian oil shipping magnate Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani.
“The Shamkhani sanctions-evasion network serves as a major enabler behind Iran’s oil exports,” the statement said.
“Today, we are designating more than 50 individuals, entities, and vessels that enable Shamkhani and the Iranian regime to continue benefiting while the Iranian people suffer,” the department added.
The U.S. State Department further stated that the Shamkhani network relies on a combination of Iranian and foreign individuals and companies to carry out sanctions-evasion operations.
The network also allegedly uses overseas shell companies, which are described as essential to its ability to trade sanctioned goods and recover revenues from those transactions.
The State Department said Washington will continue using all available tools to hold the Iranian regime accountable for its actions.
